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Context:

According to the new report Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 released by the World Economic Forum (WEF), cyber threats pose significant risks to critical infrastructure that depends on networks of interconnected devices and legacy systems.

About Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025

Produced in partnership with Accenture, it explores cybersecurity trends that will impact economies and companies in the coming year.
It explores key findings and focuses on the complexity of the cybersecurity landscape, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, emerging technologies, supply chain interdependence, and the sophistication of cybercrime.

Key issues Highlighted

Issue	Details	Examples
Geopolitical Conflicts	Ongoing conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, have increased cyber vulnerabilities in critical sectors like energy, telecommunications, and nuclear power.	Increased vulnerabilities due to geopolitical conflicts.
Complexity in Cybersecurity	The increasing complexity of cybersecurity as technology evolves.	Growing challenges due to technological advancements.
Cybersecurity Readiness	Two-thirds of organizations expect AI to impact cybersecurity, but only one-third have the necessary tools to assess AI-related risks. Smaller organizations face significant challenges.	Only one-third of organizations have tools to assess AI-related cybersecurity risks.
Cyber Skills Gap	A significant shortage of cybersecurity professionals.	4.8 million cybersecurity professionals missing by 2024. Only 14% of organizations have a skilled workforce.
Supply Chain Interdependencies	More than 50% of large organizations see supply chain complexity as a barrier to cyber resilience. Concerns include third-party software vulnerabilities, cyberattacks, and challenges in enforcing security standards.	Over 50% of large organizations report supply chain complexity as a barrier to cyber resilience.
Sophistication of Cybercrime	Cybercriminals are using generative AI tools for more personalized and automated attacks, such as phishing and social engineering.	42% of organizations experienced phishing and deepfake attacks in 2024.
Regulatory Challenges	Many organizations find cybersecurity regulations complex, causing compliance issues.	70% of organizations find cybersecurity regulations too complex to comply with.

Impacts

Critical infrastructure: Cyber-attacks on water utilities, satellites, and energy networks can disrupt essential services and public safety. An example of this is the October 2024 attack on a water company in the US.
Biosecurity Risks: Advances in artificial intelligence, cyberattacks, and genetic engineering pose threats to laboratories and public safety. The risks are highlighted by incidents in South Africa and the United Kingdom.
There is a gap in cyber resilience, with developed regions (e.g., Europe and North America) better prepared than developing economies (e.g., Africa and Latin America).
Challenges of the transition to renewable energy: The transition to renewable energy systems presents new vulnerabilities that make energy networks attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Way Forward

Cybersecurity should be approached as a strategic investment rather than a technical issue, with management focusing on the technical and economic dimensions.
Closer collaboration between business and cybersecurity leaders is essential to manage growing threats and risks.
Streamline and harmonize global cybersecurity regulations to increase compliance and resilience.
Address the global cyber skills gap through targeted training and upskilling programs.
Organizations must develop tools to assess and mitigate risks associated with AI adoption.

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CYBERSECURITY

About Global Cybersecurity Index 2024

Source:

Down to Earth

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks globally, how do you assess the cybersecurity challenges and risks expected to emerge by 2025? Discuss the role of international cooperation, technological advancements, and policy frameworks in addressing these challenges. (250 words)